Addiction: Herb takes the fun out of Coke
23 April 2008
A compound extracted from Chinese herb Stephania (han fang ji), prevents cocaine from exerting its euphoric effects on rats. Tetrahydropalmatine blocks dopamine receptors in the brain that are normally responsible for pleasurable sensations felt in response to taking the drug. It is hoped that the herb will help crack cocaine addicts kick their habit. (Levo-tetrahydropalmatine inhibits cocaine's rewarding effects: experiments with self-administration and brain-stimulation reward in rats.
Neuropharmacology. 2007 Nov;53(6):771-82).